AUTHORITIES at Chalabesa Secondary School in Kanchibiya District have expressed concern over the significant decline in the Grade nine pass rate at the school this year.
School Headteacher Isaac Ngombelo revealed that the pass rate dropped from 53 percent last year to 37 percent this year, a worrying trend given that Chalabesa is the only secondary school in the Chalabesa Zone.
Speaking in an interview with the Zambia News and Information Services (ZANIS), Mr Ngombelo stated that the declining performance is damaging the school’s reputation and called on pupils to put more effort in their studies.
“With the introduction of the Free Education Policy by the government, pupils now have the opportunity to access education without financial barriers. However, there are other factors contributing to this year’s drop in the pass rate, and we must address these challenges,” he said.
He lamented that many pupils in Chalabesa, the Central Business District of Kanchibiya, are forced to cover long distances to school which he said discourages attendance and contributes to high absenteeism.
“The school faces high levels of absenteeism every year. We are working to address this issue, especially as the district continues to witness notable developmental projects,” he added.
Mr Ngombelo also emphasised the school’s commitment to improving education standards by encouraging pupils to appreciate the benefits of education. He urged parents to actively participate in their children’s academic progress.
“Parents must take an interest in their children’s performance by following up with schools and attending meetings. Collaboration between parents and the school is essential to improving academic outcomes,” he said.
Additionally, Mr Ngombelo appealed to the government to construct more boarding facilities in the Chalabesa Zone to accommodate pupils who currently travel long distances.
Meanwhile, District Education Board Secretary (DEBS) Lilian Banda disclosed that the government plans to construct a boarding school facility in Kanchibiya District.
“The first-ever boarding school in the district is being built in the Katumba area. Additionally, some schools in areas such as Kopa Chiefdom have weekly boarding spaces, and similar facilities are underway in Kabinga Chiefdom,” Ms Banda said.
Ms Banda also expressed disappointment over the decreased Grade nine pass rate and emphasised that there is no excuse for the poor performance.
“My office is planning to meet with four schools in the district that have consistently underperformed. This trend is becoming a serious concern, and it must be addressed,” she said.
